Boasting a rich culture and heritage, Odisha or Orissa is a fascinating destination in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent. Be it the architectural brilliance of Konark Sun Temple, the spiritual atmosphere of Jagannath Temple, the calmness of Puri Beach, or the charm of the oldest surviving Indian classical dance Odissi, a trip to the state leaves a lasting impression. If you are planning a vacation to this state, make sure to add these top places to visit in Odisha to your itinerary.
1. Bhubaneswar, Odisha
Popularly referred to as the ‘Temple City of India’, Bhubaneswar is a perfect blend of old and modern cultures. From ancient caves and temples exhibiting the Kalinga style of architecture to beautiful parks and lakes, there is no dearth of places to explore in Bhubaneshwar. Lingaraj Temple, Parasurameswara Temple, Mukteshwar Temple and Nandankanan Zoological Park are some popular attractions here.
- Best time to visit – October to mid-March
- Ideal duration – 3-4 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport
- By Train: Take a train to Bhubaneswar Railway Station
- By Road: NH 16 and NH 316 are the main highways that connect Bhubaneshwar to the rest of Odisha.
Check out these must-see ancient temples in Bhubaneswar
2. Puri, Odisha
A must-visit destination for devotees and leisure travellers, Puri is packed with tourist attractions. The well-known Jagannath Temple, one of the Char Dhams, is located in Puri. Apart from paying your respects at the many temples in the city, you can relax by the sea, try exciting activities at the shoreline and spot a variety of birds at Chilika Lake Bird Sanctuary.
- Best time to visit – July to March
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (59 km away). Take a taxi or bus from there.
- By Train: Take a train to reach Puri Railway Station
- By Road: NH316 and NH60 are the main national highways to take when visiting the town by road.
Here is a complete list of popular places in Puri.
3. Cuttack, Odisha
Also known as the ‘Millennium City’, ‘Silver City’ and the cultural capital of Odisha, Cuttack boasts of over 1000 years of history and eye-catching silver, brass and ivory filigree works. While the Barabati Fort and Cuttack Chandi Temple here will transport you back in time, the Satkosia Wildlife Sanctuary will reveal many of nature’s secrets.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (30 km away) is the nearest option. Hire a taxi from there.
- By Train: Reach Cuttack Junction
- By Road: To reach Cuttak, take NH 16 or NH 55
4. Konark, Odisha
One main reason to visit this city in Odisha is the popular Konark Sun Temple. This temple dedicated to the Sun God is a UNESCO World Heritage Site admired for its intricately carved architecture around the world. The city also houses an engrossing Archaeological Museum and some beautiful and serene beaches like Chandrabhaga Beach and Ramachandi Beach.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (61 km away) and take a taxi.
- By Train: Puri Railway Station (37 km away) is the nearest option. Take a cab or bus from there.
- By Road: There are two ways to reach Konark by road either take the Puri-Konark Marine Drive or Konark-Kakatpur Road.
Find out more about Konark Sun Temple
5. Rourkela, Odisha
The ‘Steel City of Odisha’ with important industrial centres is a great place to visit in Odisha with family. With its hilly terrain, open forests and magnificent waterfalls, the city is a treasure trove for nature lovers. You will also find some important temples, gardens and wildlife sanctuaries here such as Hanuman Vatika, Indira Gandhi Park, Vaishno Devi Temple, and Deer Park.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Take a flight to Rourkela Airport
- By Train: Reach Rourkela Junction and take a taxi
- By Road: NH 143 connects Rourkela to other parts of Odisha.
6. Chandipur
Have you heard about the receding or disappearing sea or beach? This unique phenomenon happens at Chandipur Beach! The sea here recedes by as much as 5 km during the low tide and comes back. You can walk deep into the seabed when the water recedes, enjoy spectacular views during sunrise and sunset, and treat your taste buds to some freshly prepared seafood.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (217 km away) and then take a bus or taxi.
- By Train: Reach Balasore Railway Station (14 km away) and hire a taxi.
- By Road: Take the Chandipur Road from Balasore to reach the town.
7. Baripada, Odisha
Popular as the cultural centre of Odisha, Baripada is a preferred destination for religious trips. It is also known as ‘Dwitiya Srikhetra’ as after Puri, the biggest Rath Yatra takes place here. Jagannath Temple, Jwala Mukhi Temple, Simlipal National Park and the Palace of Mayurbhanj are some top attractions here. Art lovers must attend the popular Chhau event in April.
- Best time to visit – October to April and June-July for Rath Yatra
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata (230 km away) is the nearest option, from where you can take a bus or taxi.
- By Train: Reach Baripada Railway Station from nearby places.
- By Road: Many national highways connect Baripada to nearby cities in Odisha such as NH19, NH61 and NH18
Know more about the popular Rath Yatra
8. Gopalpur, Odisha
This port town on the coast of the Bay of Bengal is among the best places to visit in Orissa. An offbeat yet relaxing destination, Gopalpur houses the beautiful and serene Gopalpur Beach where you can also enjoy interesting seaside activities. Although there aren’t many tourist attractions within the town, Bala Kumari Temple, Maa Tara Tarini Hill Shrine and Chilika Lake are in the vicinity.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (171 km away) and then take a bus or taxi.
- By Train: Reach Berhampur Railway Station (15 km away) and hire a taxi.
- By Road: NH 516 and NH 16 are the two highways that connect Gopalpur to other parts of Odisha.
9. Sambalpur, Odisha
The culturally rich Sambalpur is the place to visit in Odisha with friends and family. The topography and ecology of the district also attract nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. You can also seek blessings at Maa Samaleswari Temple and Maa Pataneswari Temple and spend time amidst nature at Debigarh Wildlife Sanctuary and Hirakud Dam.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (263 km away) or Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (281 km away) and then take a cab or bus.
- By Train: Take a train to Sambalpur Railway Station
- By Road: To reach Sambalpur, take NH 55, NH 10, NH 15 and NH 53
10. Berhampur, Odisha
The Abode of Lord Brahma, Berhampur or Brahmapur is frequented by the religious-minded. The city is replete with temples, popular ones being Maa Budhi Thakurani Temple, Sri Sri Sri Siddhi Binayak Pitha and Nilakantheshwar Shiva Temple. Beach lovers can enjoy the tranquillity of Dhabaleswar Beach and Gopalpur Beach, while shopaholics can head to the local markets and shop for Ikkat silk sarees and other speciality products.
- Best time to visit – November to April
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (173 km away) and then take a bus or taxi.
- By Train: Take a train to Berhampur Railway Station
- By Road: Berhampur is connected to the nearby towns and cities with NH 22, NH 17, NH 59 and NH 16.
11. Balangir, Odisha
A well-planned city with a rich cultural heritage, Balangir is known for numerous ancient temples, beautiful parks, and native tribes that have lived there for centuries. When in the city, you can seek blessings at Maa Pataneswari Temple and Someswar Shiva Temple and enjoy the lush green surroundings of Rajendra Park. Nature lovers must also visit Karanga Kata Lake, one of the oldest lakes in Odisha, known for boating, picnic and photography.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (275 km away) or Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (317 km away) and take a bus or taxi to Balangir.
- By Train: Balangir Railway Station is well-connected to Kolkata, Chennai, and other cities.
- By Road: State government buses run via NH42, NH26 and NH57 between Balangir and other places in Odisha.
12. Dhauli, Odisha
A small town near Bhubaneswar, Dhauli is popular among the followers of Lord Gautam Buddha. It is believed that the Kalinga War, a deadly battle between King Ashoka’s Maurya Empire and the state of Kalinga, was fought in Dhauli. The Buddhist Peace Pagoda called Shanti Stupa, Ashoka Rock Edicts and Dhabaleswar and Bahirangeswar Temple are the main attractions here.
- Best time to visit – November to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is only 11 km away from Dhauli. Take a taxi from there.
- By Train: Reach Bhubaneswar Railway Station and hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw.
- By Road: Take a cab or bus from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, Puri and other nearby places to reach Dhauli.
13. Jeypore, Odisha
Beautiful waterfalls, dense forests, and mystical valleys make Jeypore a romantic place to visit in Odisha for couples. What’s more, this historic city also houses ancient limestone caves, palaces, and temples. Some prominent attractions in Jeypore include Bagara Waterfalls, Gupteshwar Caves and the magnificent Jeypore Palace.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Visakhapatnam International Airport (208 km away) and take a bus or taxi. The nearest bus stand is about 10 km away from the airport.
- By Train: Take a train to Jeypore Railway Station
- By Road: Book a cab or take the bus from nearby places, like Raipur, Cuttack, Brahmapur and Visakhapatnam.
14. Daringbadi, Odisha
This serene hill station is popularly known as the ‘Kashmir of Odisha’. Replete with pine forests, milky white waterfalls, colourful meadows and rolling hills, Daringbadi is a perfect destination away from the hustle and bustle of a city. Putudi and Badangia Waterfalls, Coffee Garden, and Belghar Sanctuary are some prominent attractions here.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (248 km away) and take a cab or bus. Baramunda bus stand is 6 km away from the airport.
- By Train: Reach Berhampur Railway Station (121 km away) and take a bus or taxi.
- By Road: The best way to reach Daringbadi by road is via NH59.
15. Rayagada, Odisha
Dotted with historical monuments and temples, Rayagada is an interesting place to visit in Orissa for history buffs. The city is also known for its handicrafts, handmade products, delectable cuisine, and native tribal population. Maa Majhighariani Temple, Laxminarayan Temple, and Chatikona Falls are some places of interest in Rayagada.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport (189 km away) is the nearest option. Board a bus from the bus stand (10 km away) or book a taxi to reach Rayagada.
- By Train: Take a train to Rayagada Railway Station.
- By Road: NH 326 connects Rayagada to the rest of Odisha and other surrounding parts of the country.
Find out everything about Odisha tourism
16. Barbil, Odisha
In the list of places to visit in Orissa, Barbil is a lesser-known holiday destination. This peaceful location is surrounded by verdant green hills and houses many natural and man-made attractions. You can enjoy a picnic at Murga Mahadev Waterfalls, admire ancient paintings on Ravan Chhaya Rock Shelter, and also seek blessings at the temples.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Rourkela Airport (119 km away) and book a taxi. You can also board a bus from the nearest bus stand (9 km away).
- By Train: Take a train from Kolkata, Puri, Bhubaneswar and other nearby places to reach Barbil Railway Station.
- By Road: Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC) runs regular buses to Barbil from nearby places.
17. Pipili, Odisha
If you are a fan of intriguing applique artwork, Pipili is a must-visit. From handbags and dress materials to bed sheets and wall hangings, the selection of items depicting this wonderful artwork will leave you spoilt for choice. Besides going on a shopping spree, you can visit popular places around Pipili like Shanti Stupa, Chausathi Yogini Temple and Mukteshwar Temple.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Take a flight to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (20 km away) and then hire a taxi.
- By Train: Reach Bhubaneswar Railway Station (20 km away) and take a taxi to Pipili.
- By Road: Pipili is well-connected to the nearby towns and cities via NH13 and NH316.
18. Balasore, Odisha
This coastal city with historical significance was a prominent maritime town in the medieval period. Apart from beautiful beaches and verdant hills, Balasore has many ancient temples and palaces that are a testament to its impressive and unforgettable history. Some prominent attractions include Chandipur Beach, Jagannath Temple and Kuldiha Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest option is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (206 km away). Take a bus or taxi from there.
- By Train: Board a train to reach Balasore Railway Station.
- By Road: Balasore has well-maintained roads and national highways with many private and state-run buses plying to and from the city.
19. Bhadrak, Odisha
Dotted with Hindu temples, Buddhist shrines and dargahs, Bhadrak is a wonderful place for devotees. The city also houses the ancient Dhamra Port that is worth a visit. Remember to pay respects at Bhadrakali Temple and Akhandalamani Temple, the two major temples in Bhadrak.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Take a flight to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (137 km away) and hire a taxi from there.
- By Train: Reach Bhadrak Railway Station
- By Road: Bhadrak lies at the intersection of NH 53 and NH 9.
20. Malkangiri, Odisha
This tribal-dominated district in Odisha houses many places of mythological and historical importance. When in Malkangiri, devotees can pay their respects at Bhairabi Temple, Tarini Temple and Mallikeswar Temple. Those wanting to spend some time amidst nature must head to Satiguda Dam and Ammakunda Waterfall.
- Best time to visit – July to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport (286 km away) is the nearest option. Take a cab or bus from there. The bus stand is 10 km away from the airport.
- By Train: Reach Jeypore Railway Station (108 km away) and take a taxi.
- By Road: To reach Malkangiri by road, you have to take NH326.
21. Khordha, Odisha
A district in Odisha, Khordha is known for numerous historic sites, stone monuments, parks, caves and temples. The temples here exhibit exceptional architectural work and are a treat for the eyes. Some prominent tourist places in Odisha’s Khordha District include Bhubaneswar, Atri, Dhauli, Khandagir and Udayagiri Caves, and Nandankanan National Park.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 4 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (28 km away) and hire a cab.
- By Train: Reach Khordha Road Junction
- By Road: NH57 leads you to Khordha
22. Koraput, Odisha
Nestled amidst the Eastern Ghats, this major district houses many attractions for different travellers. While devotees and history buffs can head to Sabar Srikhetra Jagannath Temple, Gupteshwar Temple and Jeypore King’s Palace, nature lovers can marvel at the surreal beauty of Kolab Dam, Duduma Waterfalls and Deomali – the highest mountain peak in the state.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 4 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport (198 km away) is the nearest option. Take a bus or cab to Koraput.
- By Train: Reach Jeypore Railway Station (28 km away) and hire a taxi.
- By Road: NH326, NH26, NH48 and NH4 are the national highways that will lead you to Koraput.
23. Nayagarh, Odisha
This important town entices tourists with its ancient temples, historic attractions and natural beauty. Exhibiting the popular Kalinga style of architecture, Jagannath Temple is the main attraction in Nayagarh. Tourists can also seek blessings at Maa Dakhinakali Temple and Nilamadhab Temple and visit other prominent places, like Panikhia Waterfall, Kuturi and Ranapur.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 3-4 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Take a flight to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (86 km away) and then hire a cab or board a bus.
- By Train: Nayagarh has a railway station, but with limited connectivity. Khordha Road Junction (68 km away) is a better option. Take a cab or bus to Nayagarh.
- By Road: To reach Nayagarh, you can either take NH57 or Nayagarh-Odagaon Rd.
24. Kalahandi, Odisha
Known for its intriguing history and natural beauty, Kalahandi District is a wonderful place to visit in Orissa. Asurgarh, a popular destination here, houses the remains of an old fort and traces of human settlement from 500 BC to 500 AD. Waterfall in Rabandarh, ancient caves in Gudahandi, Shiva Temple in Mohangiri, and Karlapat Wildlife Sanctuary are some popular attractions here.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur (252 km away), then take a cab or bus to Kalahandi.
- By Train: Take a train to Kesinga Railway Station (35 km away) and hire a cab from there.
- By Road: Kalahandi can be reached from other parts of Odisha via NH16.
25. Sundargarh, Odisha
Endowed with natural beauty in the form of hilly terrain, thick forests and gushing waterfalls, Sundargarh is a place that stays true to its name. While Khandadhar Waterfalls is popular among nature lovers, devotees can seek blessings at Maa Vaishno Devi Temple, Sukha Mahadev Temple and Hanuman Vatika. Vedvyas Dham, the place where Maharishi Vyasa wrote Mahabharata is also in Sundargarh District.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Rourkela Airport (93 km away) is the nearest option. Take a bus or taxi from there. The nearest bus stand is about 6 km away.
- By Train: Board a train to Jharsuguda Railway Station (33 km away) and then hire a cab from there.
- By Road: From NH24, take the Sundargarh-Rourkela Rd.
26. Subarnapur, Odisha
Also known as Sonepur or Sonapur, this administrative district in Odisha houses many temples. Some prominent religious sites in Subarnapur include Sashisena Temple, Rameswar Temple, and Pancharatha Temple. Patali Srikhetra, a religious place associated with Buddhism, Shaktism and Vaishnavism, is a major attraction here.
- Best time to visit – September to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Fly to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (269 km away) and then take a cab or bus.
- By Train: Reach Balangir Junction (49 km away) and hire a taxi.
- By Road: National Highway 57 and 15 will transport you to Subarnapur from other cities of Odisha.
27. Jajpur, Odisha
A district with historic and religious significance, Jajpur houses many pilgrimage sites, archaeological ruins and old monuments. Jagannath Temple on the banks of Baitarani River is an archaeological wonder and a major tourist spot. Biraja Khetra Temple, Chandikhole Chandi Temple, Ratnagiri Archaeological Museum, and Ashokjhar Waterfalls are also some must-visit attractions.
- Best time to visit – November to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest option is Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (106 km away). Take a bus or cab from there.
- By Train: Reach Jajpur Keonjhar Road Railway Station.
- By Road: The Jajpur- Singhpur Road connects the city to other parts of Odisha.
28. Jagatsinghpur, Odisha
A town in Odisha, Jagatsinghpur is a wonderful destination for devotees and nature lovers. Paradeep Port, a major seaport and a beautiful beach is in Jagatsinghpur. Beach lovers must also visit Sandhakuda and Siali Sea Beach, while devotees can pay their respects in Gada Kujanga Temple, Maa Sarala Pitha and Gorakhnath Temple.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Take a flight to Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (67 km away) and hire a taxi from there.
- By Train: Reach Gorakhnath Railway Station (13 km away) or Bhubaneswar Railway Station (63 km away) and take a bus or taxi.
- By Road: Jagatsinghpur is well-connected to the nearby places via NH55.
29. Debagarh, Odisha
Popular for its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Debagarh or Deogarh is perfect for a relaxing vacation. While nature lovers can spend time near Koradkot Fall, Pradhanpat and Daragadi Stream, the religious-minded can visit Jagannath Temple and Jhadeswar Temple. Kailash Palace, a retreat of the royals is a popular attraction here.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 2-3 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: The nearest airport is in Bhubaneswar (234 km away). Take a bus or taxi from there.
- By Train: Reach Sambalpur Junction and take a bus or taxi to Debagarh.
- By Road: Debagarh is accessible via national highway 49.
30. Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha
Located on the banks of the Mahanadi River, Tikarpada Wildlife Sanctuary is a must-visit for nature and wildlife lovers. It is spread across 795.52 sq km and houses different species of birds and wild animals, like gharials, leopards, tigers, and sloths. What’s more, the sanctuary also offers different activities for adventure seekers, like river rafting, boating and trekking.
- Best time to visit – October to March
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Reach Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar (147 km away) and book a cab.
- By Train: Take a train to Angul Railway Station (41 km away) and then hire a taxi.
- By Road: The wildlife sanctuary enjoys good road connectivity with Angul, Dhenkanal, Bhubaneswar and other cities.
31. Bhitarkanika National Park, Odisha
Spread across 672 km, Bhitarkanika is the second-largest mangrove ecosystem in the country. It has a network of creeks and canals through which you can take a boat ride and watch the inhabitants, like the saltwater crocodile, pythons, wild boar, deer, hyenas and migratory birds.
- Best time to visit – October to February
- Ideal duration – 1-2 days
- How to reach –
- By Air: Khola and Gupti are the main entry points to the national park. Biju Patnaik International Airport in Bhubaneswar is the nearest option and 145 km away from the park entry points. Take a cab or bus from the airport.
- By Train: Travel to Bhadrak Railway Station and take a bus or taxi to Chandbali river port (53 km away). Direct boat services are available from Chandbali to Bhitarkanika.
- By Road: Take a cab or bus to Chandbali or to the park entry points from Bhubaneswar, Cuttack and other nearby places.
Aren’t you excited to visit at least some of these tourist places in Odisha? So, what are you waiting for? Plan a trip and pack your bags to explore your favourite ones! If you have visited any of these destinations already, we would love to know about your experience and preferred attractions.
